Odisha submits additional affidavit to Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal

New Delhi: Urging the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal to take steps for safeguarding of the interest of people of Odisha, the State government has submitted additional affidavit regarding the ongoing Mahanadi dispute with neighbouring Chhattisgarh.

In its affidavit, Odisha has highlighted the impact in the State during monsoon and non-monsoon period due to the construction of barrages on the upper catchment areas of Mahanadi by Chhattisgarh.

Till January 1, Chhattisgarh has collected water collected 4.32 MAF (million acre-feet) water through 11 major projects which is more than the required quantity. Besides, Chhattisgarh has stored 1.78 million acre-feet water through several other medium and minor projects constructed on the upper catchment areas.

Through six barrages, the neighbouring State has collected 0.226 million acre feet water. The affidavit further stated that due to the construction of the barrages and projects in Chhattisgarh, the people of Odisha are facing problems during non-monsoon period.

Earlier, the Tribunal had directed the Odisha government to submit an affidavit basing on its petition filled seeking a stay order on the construction of barrages by neighbouring Chhattisgarh while the next hearing has been scheduled to be held on February 9, 2019.